The U.S. government is reducing the number of nonessential staff members at its embassies in the Middle East due to rising tensions in the region. This decision was announced by the State Department and military officials on Wednesday.
All nonessential personnel at the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad are being ordered to leave. This move follows a review by the State Department aimed at ensuring the safety of American citizens abroad. Although the embassy was already operating with limited staff, this order is expected to impact only a small number of employees.
In addition to Baghdad, nonessential personnel and their families in Bahrain and Kuwait have also been given the option to leave at government expense. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has authorized military dependents in the area to depart voluntarily, as U.S. Central Command continues to monitor the situation closely.
White House spokeswoman Anna Kelly emphasized that these decisions stemmed from a routine review of American personnel stationed overseas. As tensions escalate, particularly between the U.S. and Iran over its nuclear program, the situation remains fluid.
Recent discussions aimed at curbing Iran’s nuclear ambitions have stalled, leading to concerns about potential military actions. President Trump has expressed doubts about reaching a deal, suggesting that the U.S. or Israel could resort to airstrikes if negotiations fail.
Iran, on its part, has maintained that its nuclear program is peaceful and has warned that any military threats would only increase instability in the region. Iranian officials have also indicated readiness to respond to any perceived aggression.
The situation has drawn international attention, with the International Atomic Energy Agency considering measures to censure Iran for its nuclear activities. Meanwhile, a warning was issued to ships operating in the region about the heightened tensions, urging caution in key waterways.
In Iraq, officials have stated that the U.S. drawdown is part of broader diplomatic procedures across several Middle Eastern countries and that there have been no immediate security concerns justifying the evacuation. They reaffirmed their commitment to stability and security in the region.
As the situation develops, the focus remains on diplomatic efforts to resolve the tensions and ensure the safety of personnel in the Middle East.